Abstract:
Proper implementation of land use planning may contribute to solving land use problems, including
land use conflicts. Adherence to land plans depends on many factors which vary according to
circumstances of a study area. The present study aims to contribute to knowledge needed to
enhance adherence to zones in land use planning. Specifically, the study had two objectives,
namely: (1) to examine extent of adherence to village land use plans and, (2) to assess factors that
influence adherence to the village land use plans. Data were collected through household survey of
120 respondents from two villages, key informants, focus group discussions, field observation,
review of guidelines for land use planning, village land use plans (VLUPs), district land use
framework, books and journal articles. GPS points to examine adherence to VLUPs were analyzed
using Kappa statistic. Factors influencing adherence to VLUPs were analysed using binary logistical
regression and pair-wise ranking. There was moderate adherence with kappa coefficient of 0.47 and 0.49 for Iragua and Kichangani villages. Larger families with higher incomes were more likely not to
adhere to land use plans. Immigrants were also more likely not to adhere to plans than residents.
Corruption of village leaders, lack of follow up by village leaders on implementation, lack of
awareness on land use plans and underestimated population growth were the key prioritised factors
that resulted in non-adherence of land use plans. The study recommends a review of the zoning
standards to enhance sufficiency of allocated zones; privatization of grazing land; establishment of
communal grazing management plans; and involvement of communities in developing complete
plans. The study also recommends close monitoring; reviewing of VLUPs; enforcement of good
governance; establishing incentive schemes; offering continuous education and developing
participatory implementation framework.
